The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is shaping up to be one of the most unique and talent-packed showcases in league history - and yes, the Los Angeles Lakers will be well-represented. Luka Dončić, this year’s leading vote-getter, headlines the international squad, while LeBron James adds another chapter to his legendary career, earning an All-Star nod for a record-extending 22nd consecutive season. For the first time, though, he’ll be coming off the bench.
But it’s not just the star power that has fans buzzing - it’s the format. The NBA is rolling out a brand-new All-Star structure this year, and it’s a bold departure from tradition.
Instead of the usual East vs. West or Team LeBron vs.
Team Whoever, we’re getting a three-team, round-robin tournament: Team USA Stars, Team USA Stripes, and Team World. Each team features eight players, and they’ll square off in three 12-minute games.
The two teams with the best records after the round-robin phase will meet in a final game to decide the All-Star champion.
That means we’re guaranteed at least one head-to-head between LeBron and Luka - and if their squads make the final, we could see them clash again with the title on the line. Not bad for mid-February basketball.
Let’s break down the rosters and what to watch for.
Team World: Stacked and Ready
If you're looking for sheer international firepower, Team World might be the most loaded All-Star group we’ve ever seen. Luka Dončić leads the way, but he’s surrounded by MVP-caliber talent up and down the lineup.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning league MVP, brings his silky-smooth game and elite playmaking. Nikola Jokić, a three-time MVP, is still the most unguardable big man in the game.
And then there’s Victor Wembanyama - the 7-foot-4 unicorn whose combination of size, skill, and defensive instincts is already redefining the center position.
Add in Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jamal Murray, Pascal Siakam, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Deni Avdija, and you’ve got a team that blends scoring, versatility, and high-level experience. Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković will have no shortage of options when it comes to rotations and matchups.
This team isn’t just good - it’s scary. Every player on the World roster can create, defend, or dominate in their own way. If they find chemistry early, they could run the table.
Team USA Stripes: Veteran Star Power
LeBron James may be 41, but he’s still commanding attention on the biggest stages. He’s joined on the USA Stripes roster by some of the most recognizable names in the league: Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, and Donovan Mitchell. That’s a starting five that could’ve headlined the Olympics - and probably still can.
Jalen Brunson and Jaylen Brown bring toughness and scoring punch, while Norman Powell adds a spark off the bench. This team is built around experience and shot-making, and with Mitch Johnson of the Spurs calling the shots, you can expect a system that plays to their strengths.
If the Stripes get hot from deep, they’ll be tough to beat. Between Curry’s range, Durant’s midrange mastery, and LeBron’s all-around brilliance, this group has the firepower to keep up with anyone - including the international juggernaut.
Team USA Stars: The Next Generation
While the Stripes lean on proven veterans, the Stars are all about the future. This roster is packed with young, ascending talent - and if you’re wondering what the league will look like in five years, this is your preview.
Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Maxey, and Devin Booker bring explosive scoring and fearless energy. Chet Holmgren and Jalen Duren anchor the frontcourt with length and athleticism, while Cade Cunningham and Scottie Barnes offer versatility on both ends. Jalen Johnson rounds out the squad with a blend of size, skill, and upside.
Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff will have the fun (and challenge) of managing a group that wants to run, attack, and make a statement. The Stars might not have the same All-NBA pedigree as the other two teams - yet - but don’t sleep on their potential to shake things up.
What’s at Stake
The All-Star Game has always been about entertainment, but with this new format, there’s a little more edge. These players aren’t just showing off - they’re competing in a mini-tournament, with bragging rights on the line.
And with shorter games (just 12 minutes each), every possession matters. There’s no time to coast.
Expect intensity, especially in the final. If it comes down to World vs.
USA Stripes - Luka vs. LeBron, Wemby vs.
KD, Giannis vs. Kawhi - we’re in for a heavyweight showdown.
Game Details
The 2026 NBA All-Star Game tips off on Feb. 15 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. It’s an early start this year, with the action beginning at **2 p.m.
PT**, airing live on NBC and Peacock. That’s a change from previous years, but with three games and a potential fourth, the earlier tip makes sense.
Full Rosters
USA Stars (Coach: J.B. Bickerstaff, Detroit Pistons)
- Scottie Barnes (Toronto Raptors)
- Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns)
- Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons)
- Jalen Duren (Detroit Pistons)
- Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
- Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder)
- Jalen Johnson (Atlanta Hawks)
- Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers)
USA Stripes (Coach: Mitch Johnson, San Antonio Spurs)
- Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics)
- Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)
- Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
- Kevin Durant (Houston Rockets)
- LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)
- Kawhi Leonard (L.A. Clippers)
- Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
- Norman Powell (Miami Heat)
World Team (Coach: Darko Rajaković, Toronto Raptors)
- Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
- Deni Avdija (Portland Trail Blazers)
- Luka Dončić (Los Angeles Lakers)
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
- Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets)
- Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets)
- Pascal Siakam (Indiana Pacers)
- Karl-Anthony Towns (New York Knicks)
- Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
This year’s All-Star Game isn’t just a showcase - it’s a statement. With a new format, global star power, and a tournament-style twist, the NBA is pushing the envelope. And with legends like LeBron and Curry squaring off against the next wave of MVPs, we’re all in for a show.